Visit Alexandria’s very own Nature Center! At the Nature Center, you can see live animals up close and learn about the cultural and natural history of Dora Kelley Nature Park. The Naturalists on staff are here to help you and your family explore and enjoy Alexandria’s wild side! The Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center provides year-round programs and exhibits on Alexandria’s human and natural history. For more information, or to make program reservations, please call the Nature Center at 703.746.5525.

Nature "Buddies" Afterschool Program

The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities offers an afterschool program at the Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center, 5750 Sanger Avenue. This alternative program provides a safe, quiet setting for homework, study, reading, nature walks, and other nature-oriented activities. Open to children ages five to ten, the program operates Monday through Friday from 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., September 8, 2015 through June 24, 2016.

Program roster for the afterschool "Buddies" may currently be full, but parents are encouraged to add their child's name to the wait list by calling the Naturalist staff. Registration fee is $350 per month. Bus transportation is available from select City of Alexandria public schools. Juice and snacks are included in registration fee.

Girl Scouts & Boy Scouts

Bring your troop to earn a badge, patch, bead, challenge, or “try-it” at the nature center. We will provide the learning activities, program materials, and set a time to suit your troop’s schedule (you provide the badge, patch, etc.) $50 per troop for up to 15 children ($5 for each additional child). Please call 703.746.5525 to reserve.

School Field Trips

Teachers are encouraged to set up a field trip to the Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center this school year, or let one of our Naturalist staff come to your school for an outreach program! Interpretive programs are designed to assist teachers in meeting Virginia’s SOL requirements.

Volunteer Opportunities

A variety of volunteer opportunities are available through the Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center for ages 16 and above. Positions include front desk attendant, park conservation aide, and park watch assistant. Volunteer opportunities for individuals or groups in outdoor conservation and trail maintenance are also available from 10am-12pm on the first Saturday of each month. Sign-up for volunteer training or schedule community service hours by calling the Naturalist staff.

Birthday Parties

The Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center offers birthday parties for children ages 4 to 12. Each 2 hour birthday party features live animals, a nature-oriented activity, and use of a private room. Fee (residents): $165 for a party of up to 12 children. $10 for each additional child (up to 17 total children). To secure a party date, prior registration and payment are required. For booking information and forms, please call 703.746.5525 or email Majd.Jarrar@alexandriava.gov

Facility Rental

Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center "Nature News"

Good News! The Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center’s quarterly “Nature News” is now digital. You can learn about nature programming and special events free of charge. Upcoming weekend nature programs, volunteer opportunities, adult hikes, and special events are listed with direct links to the City’s registration webpage. In addition, the new and improved newsletter features informative articles and photo features depicting the latest information on the flora and fauna of Dora Kelley Nature Park.